With Tom Cleverley sidelined until Christmas, Anderson's unavailability leaves United light in midfield during an important stage of the season as they look to close the five-point gap between themselves and Premier League leaders Manchester City.

Ferguson, though, is ruling out bringing in reinforcements in January.

"It is easy to say you are going to buy players but it is not easy to buy them for Manchester United, especially in January," he said.

"I do not see anyone who could make us a better team.

"There are two or three players but they are not available, so there is no point even going there."

One bit of good news for Ferguson on the injury front is that striker Wayne Rooney, who has played in midfield in recent weeks, is fit again after he missed the 2-2 Champions League draw with Benfica last Tuesday.